The race for the EPL title is tighter this season than ever before. Three points separate the top three teams in the points table, where Chelsea lie third with 46 points. Hence, the blues are in the lookout to strengthen their squad during the ongoing January transfer and by signing Nemanja Matic from Benfica for GBP 21million in a four and half year deal, they might have just struck a brilliant transfer.

Jose Mourinho, who joined Chelsea for his second stint as the club's manager earlier in the season considers Matic to be a fantastic all round midfielder. Interestingly, Matic is not new at Stamford Bridge, as he was a Chelsea player three seasons ago. It was his performance in Benfica, which grabbed Chelsea's attention.

The manager said, 'I am very pleased that Nemanja is returning to Chelsea. He has grown as a player in Portugal and has become a fantastic all-round midfielder. I am sure he will become a very important member of the squad and help us to achieve our ambitions,' reported Daily Mail. The player is expected to make his second Chelsea debut in the weekend fixture.

But, this addition also spells pressure on Frank Lampard and Mikel John Obi, who need to be on top of their game to find a place in the starting eleven. Mourinho, being the tactician he is, could use the player in a position, which would not only suit the the club, but the player as well.

In all probability, Matic is expected to play alongside Ramires, who has looked good all-season. Matic's quality of breaking up play in the middle of the park would bring joy to Ramires as well, who also likes to score goals bombing forward.